PEORIA, Ill. – The city has officially kicked off a new campaign to help small businesses that have struggled through the COVID-19 pandemic.
It’s called the “RISE” program — or, Recovery, Income, Startup, and Expansion — the four areas the grants of up to $50,000 can help small businesses with.
“I think, at times, we all see it as, ‘Well, we give them the money, and they’ll figure it out,'” said Kimberly Richardson, Assistant City Manager. “The technical support, as well as just being present, is going to make sure that the business owners feel like they have someone in the city that they can go to, to not only just ask for resources, but also ask for additional technical assistance.”
Officials say the help could be needed just as much now, as it was during the beginning of the pandemic.
“Our economy has rebounded to some degree,” said Chris Setti, CEO, Greater Peoria Economic Development Council. “But, we know that now we’re facing labor shortages and price increases. So, our smallest businesses are still the ones that are the most vulnerable in this next year.”
A news conference announcing the RISE program was held Monday outside Hacienda El Mirador in Junction City, where Julia Salvatierra is the owner.
“We have grants like this, the small business owners like myself will know be able to stay open during this hardship time of the pandemic,” said Sanvatierra.
Hacienca El Mirador is one of around 75 LatinX-owned businesses in Peoria. Those and any small business owner is encouraged to apply for the grants. The city says even if they end up not eligible, it’s possible there are other services they can be connected with.
The application window is open now, until 5:00 p.m. Friday, June 10. CLICK HERE for more information.
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